“My favorite part of Ramadan is the strong connection and feeling that everyone has with God. There’s a peaceful atmosphere that fills the air, making everything feel calm and serene. I also love family gatherings. There’s always a moment in the day when the whole family comes together, whether it’s for iftar or just to share time. It’s a beautiful time for reflection, connection, and bonding.” – a student from Montclair State University
This weekend marked the beginning of the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, meaning we are now in the holy month of Ramadan. During this time, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, and focus on maintaining discipline in all areas of their life. For college students it can be challenging to balance this along with exams, homework, and late-night classes that may prevent a full iftar meal. Here is a guide for the best places to visit on and off campus during Ramadan to stay connected with your community, pray, and break your fast.
This is a Pakistani American cafe that just recently opened up a second location in Montclair NJ. They have a variety of options on their menu ranging from brunch foods like omelettes and wraps to delicious drinks such as their Rooh Afza matcha latte. This Ramadan they are hosting a Sehri Soiree from midnight to fajr with a tasting menu and an art gallery by the artist Waqar Moghul.
Cafes with Late Hours
Many other cafes will also be offering late night hours for Ramadan such as the Mokafe location in Paterson, New Jersey which will be open from 5pm-2am. They have rolled out a special menu for the month as well which includes Dubai Chocolate dates. The link offers information on the schedules for their other locations including their newest in Jersey City which has an entire brunch and dining menu. Qahwa House which is another Yemeni coffee shop is also open from 12pm in the afternoon to 2am in the morning during Ramadan.
On March 13th there will be a Night Market in Little Egypt in Queens. It is a fundraiser for the Malikah organization which hosts self defense classes for Muslim women. There will be vendors selling everything from modest clothing to halal street food and a raffle as well.
“I prefer the ICPC masjid because the imam there recites the Quran very beautifully and it’s very touching and close to the heart. I also like to eat at the Arab restaurants located on Main street in Paterson like Al Basha and Darna restaurant”- student from Montclair State University
Islamic center of passaic county (ICPC)
Just a seven minute drive from Montclair State University, this masjid is a favorite for many students on campus. They offer community iftars, halaqa events, weekly Jummah prayer and resources for reverts. They will also be hosting their yearly Eid Night Bazaar on March 29th from 9 pm to 12 am.
The Student Center and Bohn Hall at Montclair
If you can’t make it out to Clifton there’s no need to fret. There are prayer rooms right at our university. The Center for Faith and Spirituality is located in room 112 in the Student Center and they have a space to make wudu as well. Most recently the school also opened up a new space to pray on the first floor of Bohn Hall. The Muslim Student association meets after Isha in Bohn Hall for Taraweeh prayer. They will also be having iftar events on March 20th and 24th from 4pm-9pm.